Nancy M. Peterson

Nancy M. Peterson, age 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and friends on Monday, September 8, 2025. She was born on October 15, 1939, daughter to the late Lester and Magdalen (Moran) Arndt.

Nancy’s early years began on the family farm where her strong work ethic and kind heart were evident from a young age. Before marrying the love of her life, she worked in a local mill, laying the foundation for the hardworking, generous woman so many came to know and love. Nancy was able to be at home to raise her children before working at a uniform shop near their home.

On October 29, 1960, Nancy married Richard Peterson sharing 58 wonderful years together until Richard’s passing in 2019. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and dedication to family and community. They were proud parents to two daughters and longtime owners and operators of the Rainbow Bar in Neenah, where Nancy’s quick wit and warm spirit made everyone feel welcome. Nancy and Richard were deeply involved in the local bowling community. As junior bowling coaches and caretakers of Lakewood Lanes bowling alley, they not only shared their love of the sport but also mentored and encouraged generations of young bowlers. Nancy enjoyed passing the time with puzzles, books, word searches, and especially playing cribbage! But her favorite way to spend the day was simply relaxing-especially when surrounded by her family. She was well known for her sharp sense of humor and her belief that “laughter is the best medicine.” She had a joke ready for any occasion and delighted in bringing a smile to others’ faces.

More than anything, Nancy was proud of her family. Her greatest joy came from spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she adored beyond words.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Lipske (Perry Miller); four grandchildren: Randi Lakonen-Slomski, Tamara Lipske (Larry Houston), Dante Lipske, and Maranda Warbelton; seven great-grandchildren: Konner, Jayden, Angel, Jahzara, Kyrie, Cooper, and Bentley; and sister-in-law, Pat Arndt.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Peterson; daughter, Linda Peterson; father-in-law, Herbert Peterson; mother-in-law, Myrtle Rouse; brother, Richard Arndt; and sister-in-law, Mildred Smith.

A memorial service for Nancy will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N. Richmond St., Appleton. Visitation will begin at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. and will continue until the time of the service. Nancy will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Menasha. For online condolences, please visit www.valleyfh.com.

Nancy’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to Moments Hospice as well as Copperstone Assisted Living, especially to Sharon who became such a dear friend to Nancy over the years. The family would also like to thank Nancy’s long time friends: Tim and Barb Reese as well as Craig Derfus for the love and friendship they provided to Nancy throughout her life.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.